Willard seemed to notice something, rubbing his nose guiltily. He must be thinking that I must have found out and was giving him the cold shoulder on purpose. Then, he would coax me a bit after we got married.
Right next to the flower shop was a furniture store. I walked straight inside and saw that the walnut dining table I had ordered was ready.
Just as I was about to pay, a sweet, high-pitched voice sounded from behind me. "Willard? Didn't you say you'd come with me today to pick out a crystal chandelier?"
Why was she again?
Jolene saw me and exaggeratedly covered her mouth. "Oh, Cynthia? I'm so sorry, I have bad eyesight, I didn't see you."
"Wait, are you here for furniture, too? By the way, this store's crystal chandeliers are gorgeous, perfect for a big flat! Willard even mentioned wanting to install one in my new place last time!"
My fingers curled inward one by one. Willard had already found Jolene a new place, while I, foolishly clinging to an empty shell he had long sold off, was still waiting for an explanation.
Jolene picked up a brochure. "Cynthia, look at this one. It's imported from Italy. It would look amazing in the entryway!"
I took a step back, avoiding the brochure she was offering me. "No, thanks. I've already made my choice. You two take your time."
That girl froze for a second, her eyes instantly welling up with tears as if she had been deeply wronged. "Do you ... not want me here? Then I'll just leave."
Willard grabbed Jolene's hand as he said, "Why are you leaving? This has nothing to do with her."
He turned and glared at me. "Cynthia, Jolene will be our family from now on. Can you please be more polite to her? Don't bring your outside attitude home!"
I was stunned. Family? What kind of family? How did I, the lady of the house, not know about this?
Then I thought about it. If Willard could sell our shared home without a second thought, why would he need my permission for anything else?
"She's only good at playing those little mind games with you. If you want to leave, just leave. Why make such a big scene out of it?"
They both froze, clearly not expecting my bluntness. Jolene looked so hurt that she was on the verge of tears. "Fine, I'll leave now. I won't bother you anymore."
But Willard held her even tighter. "Cynthia, we're about to get married. Can't you act a little more mature?"